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Glossary · Security

PIV

Personal Identity Verification

In plain language

A US government standard for smart cards that identify employees and unlock buildings and computers.

The metaphor

Like a government staff ID card with a chip that opens doors and computers.

Going deeper

How it works

  • The card holds a certificate protected by a PIN.
  • It is used for logging in and signing.
  • It follows a US federal standard.
  • Rarely relevant to a Canadian small business.
In practice
  • A US federal worker logs in with a card and PIN.
  • A contractor for a US agency is issued one.
  • A card reader is built into a government laptop.

A question owners ask

Does it apply to me?

Only if you work for US federal agencies. Most small businesses will never meet it.

Related terms
AAAAuthentication, Authorization, and AccountingAccount takeoverACLAccess Control ListAdmin accountAESAdvanced Encryption StandardAES-256Advanced Encryption Standards 256-bitAISAutomated Indicator SharingAPTAdvanced Persistent Threat

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